Introduction
Gerrymandering is the process of state legislatures redrawing electoral district lines to favor of a certain political party. They do this by, “cracking and packing,” meaning, they draw district boundaries by dispersing supporters of the favored party across many districts to maximize their representation, and concentrating opposing voters into a few districts to minimize their influence. The term Gerrymandering is the combination of the name Gerry, the previous Governor of Massachusetts, and salamander. This is due to the district’s resemblance of a salamander on the district map drawn when Elbridge Gerry was in office in 1810.
Is it Legal?
Mosty.
In 2019, the supreme court clarified that they have no authority over redistricting while preceding over the Rucho v. Common Cause. Case. Stating that the constitution does not provide a “limited and precise standard” for courts to decide when Gerrymandering goes too far. However, in Shaw v. Reno, the supreme court ruled that states cannot create oddly shaped districts separating voters by race. Stating that redistricting based on race violates the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Gerrymandering Today
The redrawing of districts is still a vital part of today’s politics, in current news states like: Texas, California, and New York are all currently threatening to redraw their current district to favor their state’s current political affiliation.
This follows President Trump’s request for Texas to redraw district lines, to aid Texas republicans in gaining up to five new house seats in the 2026 midterms. Texas’ Govenor Greg Abbott is aware of “constitutional concerns” following this decision to redrawing district lines. However, GOP Texas state law makers are already holding public hearings and have started a special legislation session regarding redistricting.
On the other side, many Democrat governors have responded to Texas’ actions. Including, California’s Gavin Newson who responded to Texas’ actions, by meeting with Texas’s Democrat state lawmakers in attempt to strategize against the redistricting. Newsom also hinted that California could change their state’s districts to benefit Democrats ahead of the 2026 election.
Conclusion
Gerrymandering has been a fixture of American politics for over two centuries and continues to shape the political landscape today. While legal boundaries have been established, particularly regarding race-based redistricting, gerrymandering remains largely unchecked. As states prepare for the 2026 elections, the debate over fair representation and political influence is far from over.